Last Sunday’s Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run was an unqualified success, bringing out over 30,000 people and raising over J$152 million for five schools in western Jamaica decimated by Hurricane Melissa.

It looked like all the people of Jamaica descended upon New Kingston’s Knutsford Boulevard – bank to bank.

People from differing generations and backgrounds came together to help fellow Jamaicans and had a good time doing so.

The Sagicor Sigma Run is a testament to leadership and management skills.

Here, Sagicor Group Jamaica CEO Chris Zacca was able to galvanise the rank and file of his organisation to give their best to a national cause with the aim of besting last year’s figure despite the damage wrought on the country by Hurricane Melissa, which would have a constricting effect on the economy. 

Observing the Sagicor team, they were committed and engaged; nothing perfunctory about their manner and demeanour. What came to mind was their courtesy and hospitality.

Everyone encountered represents the brand well. It is a notable feat from a big organisation with people with disparate interests and concerns. A core culture prevails at the institution, and leadership has buy-in. 

Getting them to work willingly in unison and execute an objective is the art of management.

Reflecting on the day, Sagicor Jamaica CEO Chris Zacca, speaking with Our Today, said: “When you really think about it, having roughly one per cent of Jamaica’s population participating in this event is nothing short of extraordinary. That doesn’t happen by accident. It tells you that Sigma Run is no longer just a 5K; it’s part of who we are as a country. It’s historic, and every year Jamaicans remind us just how powerful collective action can be.

“What makes me very proud isn’t just the dollars raised, it’s the unity. In challenging times, Jamaicans show up for each other. Companies compete during the week, but on Sigma race day, we stand shoulder to shoulder for a cause that truly matters. That spirit of generosity and urgency is something special.

“Over 28 years, Sigma Run has moved from an ambitious idea with just over 100 people to a national calendar event with over 30,000 registrants. This year, we collectively crossed the one-billion-dollar mark, with J$152 million raised in our most recent effort. This is more than a milestone; it represents lives improved, facilities strengthened, and hope delivered to communities across Jamaica. That’s impact you can measure, but it’s also impact you can feel.”